Casual and Exciting 3-Day NYC Itinerary for Large Groups - First-Time Visitors

Day 1: Midtown and Central Park

Manhattan, New York, USA on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Westville Hudson

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast at Westville Hudson with fresh, simple American dishes that accommodate large groups and early risers.
USD20, 1h

9:45am

Central Park Leisurely Walk

Take a casual stroll in Central Park exploring highlights like Bethesda Fountain and Sheep Meadow, perfect for group photos and relaxation.
Free, 2h

11:45am

Visit New York Public Library

Brief visit to the iconic library located on 5th Avenue, ideal to admire architecture and feel the literary spirit of NYC.
Free, 30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Urbanspace Vanderbilt

Savor various casual and diverse food options at this bustling food hall near Grand Central, great for satisfying diverse group tastes.
USD20, 1h15m

1:45pm

Explore Grand Central Terminal

Discover the architectural beauty and hustle of Grand Central Terminal, and grab photos of its celestial dome ceiling.
Free, 45m

2:45pm

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Take in scenic views of Manhattan’s skyline from Rockefeller Center’s rooftop deck, an exciting but relaxed way to see the city.
USD38, 1h

4:00pm

Walk through Garment District

Stroll through the Garment District’s vibrant streets to enjoy some shopping and take in the local NYC vibe.
Free, 45m

5:00pm

Relax in Bryant Park

Take a refreshing break in Bryant Park with optional coffee or snack from nearby kiosks, perfect to unwind after walking.
Free, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Smith Midtown

Enjoy a casual and lively dinner at The Smith with crowd-pleasing American classics and enough space for large groups.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 2: Downtown and Brooklyn

Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn, New York, USA on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bluestone Lane

Start the day with nourishing Australian-style coffee and light breakfast, perfect for energizing a large group.
USD20, 1h

9:15am

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

Take a ferry from Battery Park to see the Statue of Liberty up close followed by Ellis Island, combining history and iconic views.
USD25, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Stone Street

Casual lunch at Stone Street with its lively cobblestone charm and a variety of pubs and eateries, great for groups seeking laid-back dining.
USD30, 1h

2:45pm

Visit 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Reflect at the 9/11 Memorial pools and explore the museum to understand this important chapter in NYC history.
USD28, 2h

5:00pm

Walk Around Oculus and Financial District

Experience the futuristic Oculus transit hub and walk past Trinity Church and Wall Street, savoring Lower Manhattan’s mix of old and new.
Free, 1h

6:15pm

Brooklyn Bridge Walk to Brooklyn Heights

Enjoy an easy paced sunset walk across Brooklyn Bridge ending at Brooklyn Heights for peaceful promenade views of the skyline.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Juliana’s Pizza

Relish some of NYC’s famously delicious New York-style pizza at Juliana’s in Brooklyn, great for casual group dining.
USD35, 1h30m

9:15pm

Night Visit to Domino Park

End the evening with calm nighttime skyline views at Domino Park, a serene spot on the Brooklyn waterfront.
Free, 45m

Day 3: West Side & Chelsea

Manhattan, New York, USA on June 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Chelsea Market

Meet up at Chelsea Market for a relaxed breakfast with plenty of food options fitting large groups and different tastes.
USD20, 1h

9:45am

Walk the High Line

Explore the scenic High Line park at a gentle pace, enjoying art installations, gardens, and Hudson River views.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

West Village & Washington Square Park

Discover the charm of the West Village with its quaint streets, ending at lively Washington Square Park for people watching and photos.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch around Bedford Street

Casual lunch near Bedford Street, famous for the Friends TV show location, offering classic sandwiches and local eateries.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

American Museum of Natural History

Spend a couple of hours at this captivating museum, ideal for groups with diverse interests from dinosaurs to space exhibits.
USD28, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at Little Island Park

Unwind at innovative Little Island park on the Hudson River with gardens and unique landscaping, a calm spot before evening activities.
Free, 45m

5:30pm

Hudson Yards & Vessel Viewing at Sunset

Visit Hudson Yards for modern architecture and view the Vessel illuminated in sunset colors, perfect for group photos and impressions.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mercado Little Spain

Enjoy a lively dinner experience tasting Spanish specialties in a bustling market environment well-suited for large groups.
USD40, 1h30m

9:00pm

Optional Stroll in Broadway Theatre District

Brief nighttime walk through the dazzling lights of the Broadway Theater District for a memorable NYC atmosphere finale. Optionally catch a show if planned.
Free (shows extra), 1h